Christmas Shopping in South Devon 2022

It really starts to feel like the festive season when we begin our Christmas shopping. Some of us enjoy going to a local Christmas fair while others prefer to hit the high street, however you plan to do your seasonal shopping this year, we’ve got you covered. Have a look at the Christmas shopping events in South Devon and where to shop below. 

Christmas Shopping Events

Plymouth Christmas Show, Plymouth (19th November) 

The Plymouth Christmas Show returns to Plymouth Guildhall this year. A perfect day out for the whole family, Santa will be in his grotto and there will be a fantastic Christmas market to pick up some gifts.  

Thurlestone Hotel Christmas Shopping Night, Thurlestone Hotel, Thurlestone (24th November) 

For a late-night shopping trip with a difference, head to Thurlestone Hotel on 24th November. They’ll be hosting over 30 artisanal and independent businesses from 5pm – 8pm. This event is free to attend so why not treat yourself to a spot of dinner in their restaurant or a festive drink from the bar.  

Winter Fest, Torre Abbey, Torquay (26th & 27th November) 

Returning for another year, Torre Abbey’s Winter Fest will take place within their beautiful Spanish Barn. The stalls here will be selling a unique array of handmade local items that you won’t find on the high street. Entry to Winter Fest also includes free entry to the main house, where visitors can enjoy a Christmas Traditions Exhibition and Festive Garden Trail. 

Christmas Craft & Gift Fayre, Pavilions, Teignmouth (27th & 28th November) 

Showcasing a festive selection of gifts and craftwork, Pavilions in Teignmouth are hosting their Christmas Craft & Gift Fayre on the 27th and 28th November. There will be over 40 stalls to browse and shop from; with such an eclectic range of goods, there will be something on offer for everyone.  

Sidmouth Christmas Late Night Shopping (2nd December)  

Head down to Sidmouth on the 2nd December for their annual late night shopping event. Support their local, independent shops who will be offering a wide range of gifts from homewares to fashion, and plenty of lovely stocking fillers. Listen to the sounds of Sid Valley Radio who will be supporting the event or sing along with the La La Choir who will be performing all of your favourite festive tunes. 

Newton Abbot Christmas Fayre, Newton Abbot Racecourse (3rd December) 

Newton Abbot Racecourse’s Christmas Fayre is not an event to be missed! They will be hosting over 90 stalls offering a huge range of items, from tasty local food and drink to beautifully handcrafted gifts. With such a wide selection, there will be something for all tastes and budgets. For some extra Christmas magic for your little ones, you'll also find their popular 'Rein-pony' rides, festive face painting and an inflatable snow globe. 

CHSW Christmas Market, The Old Market, Dartmouth (3rd December) 

From 10am to 3pm on Saturday 3rd December, Dartmouth’s Old Market is the place to be for a festive Christmas Fair in aid of Children's Hospice South West. Not only will you be able to start your Christmas shopping with a great selections of gifts on offer, but you’ll also be supporting an amazing local charity. 

Kingsbridge Celebrates Christmas, Kingsbridge (3rd December)  

Kick start your Christmas shopping at Kingsbridge Celebrates Christmas. Stallholders from across Devon will be in attendance offering up tasty food as well as a plethora of gifts for all your loved ones. For children, the free ice rink will be back this year and you can enjoy a festive trip alongside the estuary on Kingsbridge’s little train. Santa will also be available to visit!   

Christmas Craft Fair, Kingsbridge (5th –24th & 28th – 30th December, excluding Sundays) 

Running throughout December, the Christmas Craft Fair in Kingsbridge’s Market Hall gives visitors the opportunity to buy locally made crafts direct from the makers. There will be a wide range of unusual gifts perfect as presents or to treat yourself!  

Totnes Late Night Shopping & Christmas Market (6th, 13th & 20th December) 

Totnes will be getting into the festive spirit with their late night shopping events and renowned Christmas market. Expect to find excellent entertainment, good food and drink, hidden gnomes, plenty of fairy lights and much more. Hunt for unique gifts for loved ones from local makers in over 70+ local artisan stalls in the Christmas Markets as well as in Totnes' independent stores. 

Newton Abbot Late Night Shopping (7th , 14th & 21st December) 

Newton Abbot’s late night shopping event will run on Wednesdays throughout December until the 21st. Live music and entertainment will also be on offer for visitors to enjoy. Pop on down to partake in the festivities! The town’s Christmas light switch on will take place on Saturday 26th November at 5pm so some businesses may also stay open later on this date too.  

Ashburton Makers Market, St Andrew's Church, Ashburton(10th December) 

Returning on Saturday 10th December, Ashburton Makers Market will showcase the work of local craftspeople and artists, from in and around Ashburton. On offer here is a wealth of traditional crafts with a contemporary twist and the opportunity to shop for unique and affordable Christmas gifts. 

Shopping Small at Christmas 

Many of us are looking to shop small this Christmas and support our local businesses and communities. Across South Devon, villages and towns are home to independent shops which are the perfect places to get started on your Christmas shopping. Dartmouth, for example is a great destination for artwork due to its wide range of galleries whilst Tavistock is wonderful for stylish clothing and Totnes is the place to visit for ethical and eco-friendly gifts. To find out more about shopping small in South Devon, have a look at our Shop Local in South Devon blog post here.  

Or, you can take a look at our selection of shops in South Devon here. 

Shopping Centres 

If you’re not able to attend any of the Christmas markets or fairs, don’t panic as we have plenty of other great places for you to get some Christmas shopping done! 

Princesshay Shopping Centre, Exeter 

In the heart of Exeter, Princesshay Shopping Centre houses lots of well known shops and restaurants for you to choose from. The wider Exeter high street also boasts lots of beautiful independent boutiques too. 

Fleet Walk Shopping Centre, Torquay 

If you’re staying on the English Riviera, also known as Torbay, make sure to check out Fleet Walk Shopping Centre in Torquay. You’ll find a great range of shops to pick up those special presents. 

Market Walk, Newton Abbot 

In the heart of Newton Abbot’s pedestrianised town centre, Market Walk is the newly regenerated shopping area, home to some great high street names and local, independent shops to meet all your retail needs. You can also find the Indoor Market here, offering a wide selection of stalls showcasing local produce, vintage records, and more. 

Old Market Sqaure, Dartmouth 

Conveniently located in the centre of Dartmouth, Old Market Square features plenty of independent shops and provides an eclectic shopping experience. Here you can find fantastic local food, health products, hardware and household goods, children’s clothes and plants, just to name a few! It’s also home to the Dartmouth Farmers Market which runs on the second Saturday of each month. 

Christmas Markets 

If you’re looking for larger Christmas markets, take a look at our Christmas markets in South Devon blog post here. We’ve got some fantastic festive markets happening across the region, many with live entertainment, food, drink and of course, lots of fabulous vendors selling gifts and seasonal treasures. 

Looking for Christmas events? Head over to our Christmas events in South Devon blog post here. 

And if you would like to find out where to meet Santa in South Devon, have a look at our blog post here. 

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